(Newser)
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Harry Reid's hope of passing health care legislation before Christmas took a giant step forward tonight. Reid got the 60 votes he needed to ward off a Republican filibuster and clear the way for full debate on the Senate floor after the Thanksgiving recess. "We can see the finish line now," said Reid after the vote. The measure to move the legislation forward passed 60-39, with no Republicans in favor, reports AP. Ohio Republican George Voinovich, who previously announced his opposition, didn't vote.

The victory for Democrats came after late holdouts Mary Landrieu and Blanche Lincoln decided to vote with their party, with both warning that they expected changes in the final legislation, notes the Washington Post. One of the key issues will be how the public option shapes up. A key centrist, Ben Nelson, also wants tougher language stipulating that no federal money will be used for abortions. The $849 billion Senate bill is expected to extend coverage to an additional 31 million Americans.

And still 24 million will be uninsured!!! This is the face of the man who betrayed America. Add him to Pelosi and Obama and those who have sold us out for money.

myvoice

Nov 22, 2009 12:15 PM CST

So Ucantusethatbrain...so you think that because the government has some problems of of SOME people in the system that we should just screw everyone? So you are for corporate welfare because have you seen how much of OUR money is going there? There is probably some waste in these departments of the government but probably no more than in yours! Why don't you ask your senator or rep how their government insurance is? I bet they use it! Are you rich like big business? Because unless you are, why do you support them? Shouldn't the money you and I pay in taxes go back to the people and not to the big business and the rich?

fastback

Nov 22, 2009 12:07 PM CST

The only way to pass the bill on to the next step was to use your money to buy votes,300 million to Mary Landrieu. Sounds good to me, give the whore 300 million and tell her how to vote. Not cheap but it works. Here`s another thing have been hearing lately about women don`t need mammograms and pap smear tests as often as their doctors have recommended. Get ready for rationing as the supply of doctors and specialists dwindles. They would have to be a fool to get into the profession as there will be no rewards for their labor. The golden spike of socialism courtesy of the dems is about to be driven home. Those that voted for the fools will now reap the benefits,higher taxes,rationed care,longer waits and less r&d. Big o must be proud that the whores have prevailed for the time being. One more question we need to ask, if this plan is sooo good why did congress exempt themselves form it?